Bianchi Via Nirone 7 (105) (2018) - Review

The Bianchi Via Nirone 7 (15) has been made using a triple butted Alloy 661 frame with hydroforming. The high quality of the welding is evident from the visible smooth edges on the frame. The frame geometry makes it an ideal enduro-road bicycle for medium distance to long distance riders. The ergonomically designed frame geometry allows a perfect combination of an aggressive riding position while ensuring comfort. The aggressiveness enhances the overall performance, while ensuring aero benefits. The frame has mounting options for two water bottle holders. This bicycle is available in four sizes - Small (5cm), Medium (53cm), Large (55cm) and Extra Large (57cm). The Bianchi Via Nirone 7 (15) comes with an Alu/Carbon fork unit reinforced with Kevlar on the fork and the specially designed seat stay, to absorb vibrations during the ride. Additionally, the K-VID Tech (Kevlar vibration isolating device) ensures that the frame remains stiff while also absorbing a good amount of the feedback from the road, without transferring it to the rider. It also helps in optimal power transfer and directional focus.

The Bianchi Via Nirone 7 (15) comes with unarguably, one of the best drivetrain componentry. Namely, a complete Shimano 15 groupset. Shimano 15 is synonymous with efficiency and precision. This 22-Speed bicycle provides a range of gearing options for a long distance endurance rider. The shifting was seamless and the derailleurs worked effortlessly in making the ride quality superior, leaving absolutely no room for complaints. The placement of the shifters were easily accessible from the main frame handlebar.

In terms of high performance, well designed bicycles - Bianchi has it all in the bag! The Bianchi Via Nirone 7 (15) is a super stylish road bicycle that is available in a single colour option, a primary matte black with signature Bianchi Celeste Green branding. The ‘Via Nirone 7’ is branded in Bianchi's classic font for this particular bicycle. The branding on the bicycle has been kept to the bare minimum, which goes with the overall classy look of the bicycle. Additionally, The usage of internal tubing not only adds to performance, but also adds to the aesthetics of the bicycle. And if this wasn’t enough, the tapered tube profiling gives this bicycle an appealing look while shaving off from the overall weight of the bicycle.

The Bianchi Via Nirone 7 (15) comes equipped with Shimano Rim Brakes. I feel that this is perhaps the only point where I could see any room for critique. While the braking was responsive and efficient, I feel a slight added stopping power would have taken this bicycle to a whole new level. This especially when there is a requirement for abrupt stopping rather than feathered stopping. When it comes to the handlebar, I feel that the width of the handlebar was perfectly in line with my shoulders, enabling a rather controlled and efficient riding position. However, I did feel the need to stretch a wee bit excessively when it came to using the drop bars, putting me into a slightly over-aggressive riding position. Considering that drop bars are aimed for aerodynamics and performance, I personally do not view this as a disadvantage.

The Bianchi Via Nirone 7 (15) comes equipped with a pair of Vittoria Zaffiro 7x25C, slick tires. The dimensions of these tires are slightly wider than what's usually found on roadies, this works well when on long distance rides. Given that this is an enduro-road bicycle, the dimensions are perfect and do not affect the overall speed/performance capabilities of this bicycle. Additionally, the San Marco saddle that comes on this bicycle was impressively comfortable and enhanced the overall ride quality.